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18+ Opening Day
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April 24th 2009 - The 18+ Division of the IABL got off to a cold and damp start on Sunday. Under threatening skies at Trinity Ballpark we managed to get all games in and successfully kick off the season.
Despite the less than perfect conditions, we saw some very good and exciting baseball.
In the 12:30 openers the Dodgers jumped out to an early lead and then held off the Beavers 5 to 2. While it was clear that the Dodgers were knocking off some winter rust, it was also clear that they will be a team to contend with this season just as they have been every season in recent memory.
The Mustangs scored early and often against the Cubs with Jason Kimble and Gordie Ranek making successful returns to the league, each chipping in with a Home Run and 3 RBI. Welcome back fellas.
The Hurricanes and Orioles provided enough heat in their see saw game to keep everybody warm. The Orioles jumped out to the early lead and then the Hurricanes taking advantage of 6 hit batters, chipped away to overcome the early deficit. The O’s then came back and forced extra innings behind a monster Home Run straight into the wind off the bat of Joe Pahnke. The Canes managed to pull it out in the bottom of the 11th on a walk off hit by rookie Joel Wesseling who had contributed defensively by gunning down two Oriole runners at the plate.
In one 3:30 nightcap the Arrows came from behind to top the Braves. Arrows shortstop Eric Smith stroked a line drive over the right field fence for a Home Run in his first ever at bat in the IABL. Another newcomer, Ryan Nicholson, picked up the win with two innings of hitless baseball in relief of 2008 Cy Young winner Eric Teall.
Meanwhile, Astros veteran lefty Lawrence Ballenger no hit the Reds in a rain shortened 5 inning game. George Chao provided the offense going 2 for 3 with a triple.
Probably the story of opening day is the way that the new players who came through the draft to join the league, stepped up and helped their teams. The new additions to the Astros, Braves, Hurricanes, and Orioles paid immediate dividends.
Choosing a Player of the Week is difficult. There were many standout efforts. However, there were two that deserve special recognition.
For their performances on Sunday, Lawrence Ballenger of the Astros and Joel Wesseling of the Hurricanes are recognized as co-winners of the Player of the Week.
The IABL would like to send out a special thank you to Jeff Jellison and all of his crew at Trinity Ballpark. Were it not for your efforts we would not have been able to get the games in. Thanks to you, Opening Day 2009 was a success.
RESULTS
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Tryouts and draft for the 2012 Season will be held on Saturday, February 18 at 12:00
The Indiana Baseball Academy will once again be the host for IABL tryouts. The IBA is located at 9760 Mayflower Park Dr. Carmel, IN 46032
We are anticipating a heavy turnout and it is strongly suggested that you pre-register online. To register go to Pay Fees on the navigation bar and fill out the age appropriate form. You may also register at the door starting at 11:00 on the 18th.
The 18+ and 28+ seasons will begin on April 29 and end with Championship weekend on August 26. The 18+ will play and 18 game schedule with 14 Sundays and 4 Thursdays. The 28+ will play a 16 game schedule with 3 doubleheaders and all games on Sundays.
The 35+ Division will begin on May 30 and will end with the Championship on September 26.
Tryouts for the 45+ will be announced soon.
You may play in more than one division if you are age eligible. For the purpose of registration please select one.
Contact IABL President John DeCosta at 317-626-1290 if you have any questions.
